THIEVES left a Black Country grandmother heartbroken and in tears after they stole a bench that was a favourite of her late husband.

Wolverhampton 55-year-old Catherine Pearce lost her husband of 14 years in 2006 after a long illness.

She had been a carer for 63-year-old Charles Pearce, who spent much of his time with his six children and 13 grandchildren on a wrought iron bench outside their home in Foster Road, Low Hill.

However, Mrs Pearce said she was “gutted” when she discovered Sunday morning that the bench, painted black with ‘Grans Bench’ in gold writing, was missing.

Police think it was stolen overnight at some point between 11.25pm on Saturday and 10.40am the following day.

Mrs Pearce said: “I’ve had the bench for the last 19 years since Charles and I got married in 1992. He died five years ago in 2006 and this bench is one of the main things I remember him by.

“I’m gutted that someone has taken it and keep crying about what’s happened.

“It’s got so much sentimental value and I ask anyone who knows where it is or who took it to get in touch with police.”

The bench used to be in the ECC Sports and Social Club, in Showell Road, Low Hill, but was given to Mr Pearce when the club was refurbished around 20 years ago.

“They might have taken the bench but they can’t take my memories,” added Mrs Pearce.

Police have appealed for information and called on the culprits give the bench back. PCSO Kelly Bradburn, from Bushbury South and Low Hill neighbourhood policing team, said: “This has clearly upset Mrs Pearce and we are exploring all lines of enquiry to try and find those responsible.

“Hopefully whoever knows what’s happened to this bench will see this appeal by Mrs Pearce, realise the sentimental value of the item and do the right thing by letting us know where we can find it.”